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Can Beta-Hydroxy-beta-Methylbutyrate Supplementation Counteract Muscle Catabolism in Critically Ill Patients?

Not Applicable
Completed
Conditions
Critical Illness
Muscle Weakness
Interventions
Dietary Supplement: HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate)
Registration Number
NCT03628365
Lead Sponsor
Mette M Berger
Brief Summary

The rapid decline of muscle mass and function in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients is associated with prolonged length of mechanical ventilation, prolonged intensive care (ICU) and hospital stay, increased ICU and hospital mortality, and prolonged impairment in physical function and quality of life. High protein feeding only partially attenuates the muscle loss. The aim is to study the impact of HMB (3 g/day) on the muscle mass of the critically ill patients from day 4 of their admission to maximum 30 days, but at least for 10 days.

Detailed Description

The rapid decline of muscle mass and function in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients is associated with poor outcome, and limitations of functional recovery. High protein feeding only partially attenuates the muscle loss. The aim is to study the impact of HMB (3 g/day) on the muscle mass of the critically ill patients from day 4 of their admission to maximum 30 days, but at least for 10 days. The study is testing a nutrition complement (HMB) that is included in feeding products registered for medical nutrition by Swiss Federal Authorities, but who do not provide sufficient protein quantities.

On days 4 and 15 after ICU admission, specific investigations will include: Ultrasound measurement of the muscle quadriceps femoris (CSA), bioimpedance analysis (BIA) of body composition, protein synthesis and catabolism using amino acid tracers. On D30 and D60: telephone contact to assess global health and mobility (SF-12).

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
COMPLETED
Sex
All
Target Recruitment
37
Inclusion Criteria
  • likely length of stay >5 days
  • on mechanical ventilation
  • likely survival >7 days
  • full treatment
  • functional gastro-intestinal tract
  • presence of a central venous catheter
Exclusion Criteria
  • absence of consent
  • less than 18 years patients
  • gastro-intestinal dysfunction
  • major burns >20% body surface
  • admission for cardio-respiratory arrest or brain injury
  • pregnancy or lactation
  • diabetes mellitus (I and II)
  • statin treatment
  • patient on parenteral nutrition
  • absence of central venous line
  • participation in another interventional trial

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
PARALLEL
Arm && Interventions
GroupInterventionDescription
HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate)HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate)HMB, 1.5 g b.i.d., from day 4 to day 30 after ICU admission
PlaceboHMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate)Maltodextrin, 1.5 g b.i.d., from day 4 to day 30 after ICU admission
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Muscle mass of the thighChange between Day 4 and Day 15

Ultrasound cross sectional area of the thigh, to quantify muscle loss

Secondary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Body compositionChange between Day 4 and Day 15

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA): calculation of body compartments, lean body mass, and phase angle

Protein synthesis and breakdownChange between Day 4 and Day 15

Multiple Amino acid tracer study: to detect chnges in protein metabolism between study start on day 4 and day 14 (i.e. after 10 days of intervention (HMB or placebo))

Global Health and Mobilityon days 30 and 60

Short Form 12 (SF-12) questionnaire to assess global health and mobility: range 12 to 56 points, the upper limit reflecting return to normal activity

Muscle strength (global and handgrip)Measurements on Days 4, 15, and 30

Medical Research Council muscle score (MRC) to assess upper and lower limb strength, and handgrip strength (not always feasible in ICU patients) and determine magnitude of strength loss

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

University of Lausanne Hospitals

🇨🇭

Lausanne, Switzerland

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